Celebrating research from across the UK

Over 850 research and development colleagues from across the UK gathered in Wales this week at the 2024 Research and Development Forum. 

The Forum showcased the latest developments across the UK and ways teams are advancing research practice. The three-day conference included presentations from the UK-wide professional community in research management, support and leadership in health and care. 

Dr Nicola Williams, National Director of Support and Delivery at Health and Care Research Wales welcomed attendees and introduced the opening plenary of the conference, “Strengthening public trust in research” where we heard from our very own. Felicity Waters, National Head of Communications, Engagement and Involvement in conversation with BBC Wales Health Correspondent Owain Clarke. They delved into the importance of communications, public trust and bringing research and science to life.  

“The stories I enjoy doing are those which share hope and opportunities... which is found in research,” said Owain Clarke.  

The Forum is all about connecting with colleagues who do similar roles across the country and discussing how they can collaborate and make meaningful connections. The event featured many breakout sessions including one on Joint Research Offices, with Professor Colin Dayan, Senior Research Leader, Health and Care Research Wales. He said: "It's really great to have the R&D Forum in Wales this year, for us to have a chance to present how we do things in Wales. I think there's an awful lot of cross-learning." 

The second plenary “Strengthening Pharma Industry Relationships” was chaired by Lord James O’Shaughnessy, who recently led a review of commercial clinical trials in the UK. He thanked the delegates for their contributions to the review and he led a panel discussion on the collective perspectives of what is needed to focus on right now in research.  

Oliver Buckley-Mellor, Research Policy Manager at The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) who was on the panel said:

"It's great to be at this year’s Forum, with everyone sharing their experiences and expertise … and working to ensure research benefits everyone in Wales and beyond.”  

Dr Nicola Williams, the outgoing R&D Forum Chair of the Programme Content Group said:

“It’s great to be in Wales, to really showcase what Wales has to offer, really useful to connect with our colleagues across the UK.” 

The R&D Forum in 2025 will take place in Manchester, if you can’t wait that long to connect with colleagues, register to join us online or in person at the Health and Care Research Wales Conference, 10 October 2024.